Diverticulosis

The formation of small herniations (pouches) in the gastrointestinal tract Caused by an area of weakness in the intestine Analogy: an inner tube poking through a weak spot in a tire

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The herniations are located in the mucosa and submucosa found in the wall of the intestine The pouches begin in the lumen and extend into the muscular wall

The pouches are called diverticula

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Tends to form during middle age As an individual ages, the mucosa thickens inhibiting peristalsis of the intestine Increased strain on the walls of the intestine may cause weak areas to herniate

Approximately 10% of Americans over the age of 40 have this disorder

Eventually the mucosa (lining of the intestine) becomes thickened with epithelial cells Pouch may become isolated from the lumen

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If the diverticula become inflamed, the condition is called diverticulitis

Most people with diverticulosis do not have any symptoms or have mild symptoms People with diverticulitis usually have severe abdominal pain It will most likely be accompanied by fever, nausea, vomiting, chills, cramping, constipation

It can usually be treated with antibiotics Surgery may be necessary if the diverticula perforate the intestine

If pus from infected diverticula leak into the abdominal cavity, surgery may be necessary Surgeons will remove the perforated segment of intestine and create an opening between the large intestine and the skin

Colostomy: surgical procedure leaving part of the intestine connected to the anterior abdominal wall This will usually be repaired with a second surgery

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For Lab

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